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Tueday, Seventh Sunday of Easter

During those days Peter stood up in the midst of the brothers (there was a group of about one hundred and twenty persons in the one place). He said, “My brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke beforehand through the mouth of David, concerning Judas, who was the guide for those who arrested Jesus. He was numbered among us and was allotted a share in this ministry.”

Acts 1: 15-17

Luke says that there were about 120 people there. The Church started out small.

Peter says that the Holy Spirit, dramatically at work in this community, was also at work in the writing of the Old Testament. There is continuity to God’s plan.

Judas. We’re so familiar with the story of Judas that it’s hard to imagine the pain the early Christian community experienced because of his betrayal of Jesus. After all, he had been part of the inner circle, the Twelve, handpicked by Jesus. There is personal sadness in Peter’s words – “he was numbered among us and was allotted a share in this ministry of ours.”

The Church has never declared Judas condemned. God’s mercy is wider than our sinfulness…if we can only find it in ourselves to accept God’s merciful love.

We’re all called by the Lord, just as Peter. Andres, and Judas – were called. But we’re never a sure thing. We amaze even ourselves at how low we can sometimes sink, or think of sinking.

Thanks, Lord, for never giving up on me. May I never give up on myself.

Spend some quiet time with the Risen Lord.

May 11, 2005

Legend of the Frost Saints

In Central Europe, farmers and gardeners keep watch on the nights of May 11, 12 and 13 for the three Frost Saints – Mamertus, Pancras and Servatus whose memorial days fall during this second week of May. The farmers know that a frost at this time of year could destroy crops. After the days of the Frost Saints, folklore says it’s safe to plant tender crops.

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St. Mamertus (who died c 475) was the bishop of Vienne. He began the custom of the three rogation days before Ascension as times of prayer for farmers and their needs. His feast is May 11.

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Little is known about St. Pancras (or Pancratius). At age 14, it is believed he was beheaded during Diocletian’s persecutions in 304. His feast is May 12, and he is the patron saint for children.

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St. Servatus was bishop of Tongres and supposedly hosted St. Athanasius during his exile from Alexandria. He died in 384, and his feast day is May 13.